What is Nystan?
Nystan, which contains the active ingredient nystatin, is an antifungal antibiotic medication specifically used to prevent and treat oral thrush, also known as oral candidiasis or candidal infections. Oral thrush is caused by an overgrowth of the Candida fungus in the mouth, leading to symptoms such as white patches, soreness, and difficulty swallowing.
Nystan oral suspension is designed for use in individuals over the age of 18 and is particularly effective in targeting fungal infections within the mouth. The medication works by binding to the fungal cell membrane, causing the contents of the cell to leak out, ultimately killing the fungus and clearing the infection.
The 30ml bottle of Nystan comes with a built-in applicator, making it convenient to apply directly to the affected areas in the mouth. The suspension is typically swished around the mouth or held in place for a few minutes before swallowing, allowing the medication to work effectively on the infected areas. Nystan is often prescribed for those with weakened immune systems, individuals using inhaled corticosteroids, or those who have had recent antibiotic treatment, as these factors can increase the risk of developing oral thrush.
What is the Active Ingredient in Nystan?
The active substance in Nystan is nystatin. Each 1ml of the suspension contains 100,000 units of nystatin, which works to eliminate fungal infections in the mouth.
What is Nystan Used For?
Nystan is primarily used to treat and prevent oral thrush. It works by targeting the fungal cells, stopping their growth, and reducing symptoms. This medication is often recommended for individuals who are at higher risk of developing oral thrush, including:
- Those with weakened immune systems
- People using inhaled corticosteroids
- Individuals taking certain antibiotics
How Does Nystan Work?
Nystan (nystatin) targets the fungal cells responsible for oral thrush. It binds to ergosterol, a key component of the fungal cell membrane, which is essential for maintaining cell integrity. When nystatin attaches to ergosterol, it disrupts the cell membrane, making it porous and causing essential cell contents to leak out. This leads to fungal cell death, effectively eliminating the infection.
Because Nystan acts directly on the affected areas in the mouth and throat without being absorbed into the bloodstream, it minimizes the risk of systemic side effects while effectively treating localized fungal infections.
How to Use Nystan Oral Suspension
- Shake the bottle well before use.
- Use the built-in applicator to apply the suspension directly to the affected areas in the mouth.
- Swish the liquid around your mouth or hold it in place for a few minutes before swallowing to allow the medication to work effectively.
- Follow the prescribed dosage and duration as advised by a healthcare professional.
Who Should Not Use Nystan?
When Not to Take Nystan Oral Suspension
- Do not use Nystan if you are allergic to nystatin or any of the other ingredients in this medication.
Warnings and Precautions
- Consult Your Doctor: Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before using Nystan if you have a fungal infection in the lungs or skin (systemic mycoses), as Nystan may not be suitable for such conditions.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Fertility
- If Pregnant or Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, think you might be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby, consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking Nystan.
- Uncertain Effects: While it is unclear if Nystan affects an unborn baby or fertility, it is minimally absorbed through the digestive system. It is also unknown if it passes into breast milk, so caution is advised for breastfeeding mothers.
Driving and Using Machines
- No Impact on Driving: Nystan is not expected to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Ingredients and Potential Reactions
- Allergic Reactions: Nystan contains methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E218) and propyl parahydroxybenzoate (E216), which may cause allergic reactions, potentially with a delayed onset.
- Alcohol Content: Each 30ml dose contains 228mg of ethanol, equivalent to less than 0.2ml of beer or 0.1ml of wine. This small amount is unlikely to have noticeable effects.
- Sodium Content: Nystan contains less than 1mmol of sodium (23mg) per dose, making it effectively "sodium-free."
- Sugar Intolerance: If you have been advised by your doctor about a sugar intolerance, consult them before using this product.
What Are the Side Effects of Nystan?
Like all medications, Nystan Oral Suspension may cause side effects, though not everyone will experience them.
If irritation or sensitization occurs, discontinue use immediately. Nausea has been reported occasionally during treatment.
In rare cases, large doses may lead to:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
- Stomach cramps or indigestion
Other reported side effects include:
- Rash, including urticaria (itching)
- Hypersensitivity reactions
- Angioedema (swelling of the lips or tongue)
- Facial swelling
Although extremely rare, severe allergic reactions such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome have been reported. This condition causes severe blistering of the skin, mouth, eyes, and genitals.
Reporting Side Effects
If you experience any side effects, speak with your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This includes any unlisted side effects. You can also report reactions through the Yellow Card Scheme at
www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard.
Does Nystan Interact with Other Medicines?
Nystan (nystatin) is generally considered to have a low potential for interactions with other medications because it is not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream when used as an oral suspension. This means it primarily works locally in the mouth and digestive tract without affecting other areas of the body. However, it's always important to discuss all the medications you are taking with your healthcare provider to ensure there are no potential interactions.
General Advice
- Consult Your Doctor or Pharmacist: Always inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken, or might take any other medicines, including over-the-counter medications, supplements, or herbal products.
- Oral Contraceptives: There is no evidence to suggest that Nystan affects the efficacy of oral contraceptives.
- Other Medications: Since Nystan is not absorbed into the bloodstream in significant amounts, it typically does not interact with systemic medications. However, if you are on multiple treatments, it’s a good idea to confirm this with your healthcare provider.
Special Considerations
- Tell Your Healthcare Provider: Always keep your healthcare provider informed about all your medications, especially if you have any existing conditions that require you to take multiple drugs.
If you have any concerns about potential interactions or side effects, it’s best to consult with your doctor or pharmacist.